just yesterday, I made a few purchases for my space marine army. One of which was the "Masters of the Chapter" formation. each can be used as a Space Marine Captain, or if you so desire... a Vanguard veteran member with out a jump pack. (some of the models can also be used as squad sergeants, marking one of great renown.

But the problem is, there's no hard and fast rule as to how their to be equipped. Also, in some cases, it conflicts with some chapters actual canon story line.

So to correct these issues, here's how this post will read.. first is the given box set/pictured version's rules, next will be unofficial house rules.

"Master of the watch" 2nd company captain: Options selected: Replaced original weapons (Chain sword and Bolt pistol) with a Storm shield and your choice of either a Relic blade or Power Weapon. also optional are Artificer armor, and Auxiliary grenade launcher (prefereably shoulder mounted or built into the shield or axe arm bracer)

Master of the Fleet, Captain of the 4th Company: All power here, like the description in the apocolypse . Thunder Hammer, Plasma Pistol. Melta Bombs.. Once again, I leave to you if you want to give the 4th company captain Auxillery Grenade launcher to unleash a 2nd form of "Bombardment"

Master of Recruits: This ones a bit trickier. He's a captain of his own regards. and an important one none the less. Yet... not like he has the best of the best equipment. He's more of an all round type. he can handle both ranged and up close targets. just like how the sergeants in the individual squads teach their unit all aspects of warfare. Realistically, he should cost the least out of all 4.
Suggested: Bolt gun with Hellfire Rounds instead of Bolt pistol, Melta Bombs, Power Sword.

Custom rules-
Replace with actual commander: This rule allows you to use the actual captains of your chapter, if special rules already exist about them.

Cato Sicarius can be used as the Master of the watch
Darnath Lysander can be used as Chapter Master (His stubborn will and many feats make him a prime candidate to lead such a formation in the chapter master's stead.
Kayvaan Shrike or Kor'sarro Khan can be used as the Master of the Arsenal/Hunt instead. (the asset the title awards fit's perfectly with their canon.
Vulkan He'stan can either be used as the 4th company "Master of the Fleet" OR can be used as the Chapter Master for Salamanders (This shows that due to his unique position, his authority is almost on par with the Chapter master, representing either his call to arms of any resources of the chapter OR his ability to call in orbital stikes (and partially that of his old duties) This could also partially represent the artifact known as "The Eye of Vulkaan" if the battle is fought near Nocturne

"Master of the watch" 2nd company captain: Options selected: Replaced original weapons (Chain sword and Bolt pistol) with a Storm shield and your choice of either a Relic blade or Power Weapon. also optional are Artificer armor, and Auxiliary grenade launcher (prefereably shoulder mounted or built into the shield or axe arm bracer)

1... that's what's displayed for Master of the watch, is that he is the one wielding a Storm shield and Power Axe/Relic blade

Since a relic blade is general just a larger power weapon (and/or more ornate). The power axe wielded by the Master of the watch would work fine.

2. think of it from this way, Storm Shields prevent you from getting +1 attack when using them. so might as well equip the Relic blade (GW Confirmed that YES that is allowed) to give you +2 STR with out any major draw back.